7 Air Conditioning Tips to Keep Your Home Cool This Summer
Get a Programmable Thermostat
Having a programmable thermostat can make a huge difference when it comes to keeping your home cool during summer. A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures at different times of day and night, so that you can save energy by not cooling your home when you don’t need it.
You can also set the temperature lower at night when you’re sleeping, and higher during the day when you’re away from home. This will help keep your home cooler without having to pay for extra cooling costs.
Change Your Air Filter Regularly
Having a clean air filter is key to efficient air conditioning. You should check your air filter every month and replace it if it’s clogged with dust and debris. This will help ensure your AC system operates at optimal efficiency and improve the quality of the air in your home. When replacing your air filter, make sure you select one with the appropriate MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) rating for your unit.
A higher MERV rating indicates better filtration and can help improve air quality by filtering out more airborne contaminants. Clean filters also reduce strain on your AC system, which can help save you money on energy costs.
Use ceiling fans
Ceiling fans can be a great way to keep cool in the summer heat. Using ceiling fans allows you to raise the temperature on your thermostat, as the fan will circulate the cool air and make it feel even cooler. Be sure to switch your ceiling fan’s direction so that it is running counter-clockwise in the summer.
This will help to push the air down from the ceiling and into the room. Additionally, turn off the ceiling fan when you are no longer in the room as fans can increase your energy bills if left running too long.
Check for Leaks
One of the best ways to make sure your air conditioning unit is running efficiently is to check for any potential leaks. Leaks in the ducts, windows, or doors can cause warm air to enter the home, forcing your AC to work harder to keep your house cool.
To check for leaks, inspect around your windows and doors for any gaps, cracks, or other openings that could be letting warm air inside. You can also check your air ducts for any disconnected or loose connections.
If you find any, be sure to seal them up with caulk or weatherstripping. Scheduling regular maintenance for your AC unit can also help you stay on top of any potential leaks.
Use Curtains or Blinds
Keeping the sun out of your home during the summer months is a great way to keep it cool and save on energy costs. Curtains or blinds are one of the most effective ways to do this. Keep curtains or blinds drawn during the day when the sun is at its hottest. This will block out direct sunlight and keep the air cooler inside.
You can also install blackout curtains in rooms that get a lot of sunlight and have trouble staying cool. Installing insulated curtains or shades can also help reduce heat loss during cold weather months. Finally, consider using light-colored curtains or blinds to reflect some of the heat away from your home.
Seal Your Home’s Windows and Doors
When it comes to air conditioning, the temptation is often to set the temperature as low as possible. This may give you a blast of cool air but it will also cause your air conditioner to use more energy and will drive up your electricity bills. A temperature of 25°C or 76°F is usually enough to keep your home comfortable.
You can save energy and money by using a programmable thermostat to maintain a consistent temperature during the hottest parts of the day, rather than dropping the temperature too low when you are away from home. To reduce energy usage further, consider wearing lightweight clothing and avoiding activities that produce heat, like baking.
And if you really want to make sure your home remains cool throughout the summer months, don’t forget to seal all your windows and doors to prevent hot air from entering. Weatherstripping and caulk can be used to seal any gaps in windows and door frames. Consider adding awnings to south-facing windows for added protection against direct sunlight during peak hours.
Schedule Regular AC Maintenance
Regular AC maintenance is essential for maintaining a comfortable and efficient indoor environment. HVAC technicians can inspect your air conditioner to make sure that it is working properly and running as efficiently as possible.
This will also help you avoid breakdowns, costly repairs, and other problems that could otherwise interfere with your summer plans. During the inspection, they can check and clean the system’s components, such as filters and coils, and repair any damaged parts.
In addition, they can provide preventive maintenance, such as lubricating the moving parts and checking for refrigerant leaks. Scheduling regular AC maintenance will help you save money on energy bills and extend the life of your air conditioner.
Don’t Set the Temperature Too Low
When the temperatures outside rise, it’s tempting to turn the air conditioner down as low as possible. However, setting the temperature too low in your home can put a strain on the unit and cause it to run longer than necessary.
This can not only lead to higher energy bills, but can also cause breakdowns and malfunctions. To keep your air conditioning system running efficiently, try to keep the temperature at or below 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, take note of the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperature.
If there is a large discrepancy, you may need to adjust the settings accordingly. By doing this, you’ll be able to ensure your air conditioner runs smoothly and efficiently all summer long.
Conclusion
By following these tips and regularly scheduling AC maintenance, you can make sure your home stays cool this summer while saving energy. Investing in the right thermostat and air filter can help reduce energy costs, as can sealing any drafts or air leaks around windows and doors.
With the right tools and a little preparation, you can keep your home comfortable this summer without sacrificing efficiency or comfort. So take advantage of these seven air conditioning tips, and keep your home cool this summer!
